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Re: Cold weather package install: any tips?

Do you have any comb with honey you can give them? It was pretty cold when I installed (not 20's but I seem to recall 30's for about that week). I made sure to give each a few frames of syrup/honey from existing hives in addition to some syrup in the top feeder. They seemed to grab the syrup pretty quick (they went through a gallon in no time). The top feeder never got too cold and I figured it would help them retain a bit of warmth during the cold nights (I was prepared to add warm syrup in the mornings).

From what I read you probably don't need to worry too much but I like to worry just in case.

Re: Cold weather package install: any tips?

Do you have a "frame" feeder? I installed a package once and the weather turned cold and it actually snowed that night. The weather stayed cold and snowy for a few days afterward. I had a frame feeder in there and the bees did fine. The syrup stayed warm enough because it was right in there with them.
If you use an open top frame feeder (mine was from Mann Lake), be sure to cut some pieces of 3/8" thick sticks almost as wide as the feeder so the bees can use them as floats and they won't drown. Don't leave more than 1/4" between the floats and the sides of the feeder, or each other.
I expect your bees to be all right. Don't worry, be happy.

Re: Cold weather package install: any tips?

Well, I don't have a frame feeder and no time to get one. I made up some 2" spacer boxes so I can use baggies if I need to. Do you have to do anything to keep the bees from trying to build comb in the extra space or do they know better?